Shop Safety – Environment, Health, and Safety

Always dress appropriately. No loose clothing- Ties, scarves, loose sleeves, jewelry etc. are prohibited.
Wear appropriate shoes- No sandals or open toed shoes.
Always tie back long hair, including long beards, such that it is not able to hang in front of face/neck.
Use brushes, hooks or other tools to remove chips and shavings. Never use hands, fingers or compressed air.
Use the required personal protective equipment (PPE):
1. Everyone must wear safety glasses while in the shop.
2. No gloves while machining.
3. Wear disposable gloves when working with adhesives.

DO NOT WORK ALONE! Always use the buddy system.
Do not remove, displace or damage a machine guard.
Do not prop open doors to the studio or shop or do anything to defeat
the locks.
Do not leave machines running unattended.
Do not throw hazardous materials in the regular trash. Ask how to dispose of something if you are unsure.

Never use a machine or power tool until you have been trained and are knowledgeable on its safe use.
Always keep fingers and hands clear of the point of operation by using push sticks, hooks and pliers.
Safety is your top priority in the shop, if you have questions, ASK!
Assess and appreciate the machines:
o Know which parts move, which are stationary, and which are sharp.
o Double check that your workpiece is securely held.
o Always remember to remove chuck keys and wrenches.

Do not become distracted or distract someone else while operating shop tools.
If you are fatigued, take a break.
Know your resources: Who is in charge of the shop? Shop specific rules? Operator’s manuals?
Listen to the machine. If something doesn’t sound right, turn it off and tag, “Out of Service”.

It’s a privilege to work in MIT shops, violations of these rules may result in the loss of privilege to work in MIT shops.
Always remember, the best safety devise is between our ears!